Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron Ink Box Pink

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Ink Box Pink. Both switches are linear and offer a unique typing experience, but they have their own distinct characteristics. The Crystal switches provide a fairly elastic feel and have a medium-light weight, resulting in a linear typing experience that is both responsive and comfortable. They also boast a neutral sound profile, making them a suitable choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink switches are known for their smoothness and lighter typing feel compared to other switches. They offer a higher-pitched clack when in use, which some users may find satisfying. With their beautiful translucent design, they add a touch of aesthetic appeal to any keyboard setup. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits your personal preferences.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Linear

Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$3.40 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. Both switches feature a translucent housing, indicating the usage of polycarbonate. This commonality suggests that they would provide similar results in terms of aesthetics and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, their proprietary blends and design differences lead to variations in the sound produced.

The Crystal's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Its relatively stiffer plastic composition enhances clarity and resonance, resulting in a distinct sound when keys are released. The Ink Box Pink, on the other hand, features Gateron's proprietary INK blend top housing, which generates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. While still offering a satisfying and clacky experience, the Ink Box Pink's sound profile is described as being less sharp compared to the Crystal.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the Crystal and the Ink Box Pink contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the bottom housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of the polycarbonate plastic ensures a clear and resonant sound when the keys bottom out. However, the proprietary INK blend used in the Ink Box Pink's bottom housing may introduce slight variations in the sound profile, resulting in a unique typing experience.

In summary, the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron Ink Box Pink switches share the common feature of using polycarbonate for both their top and bottom housings. This similarity allows for comparable aesthetic benefits and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, their proprietary blends and design differences result in variations in sound profiles. The Crystal is recognized for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Ink Box Pink offers a similar but slightly toned-down clacky sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences and desired typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to take note of. Starting off with the Crystal, it has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls under the category of a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. In terms of weight, both switches offer a similar typing experience, but there is a slight distinction with the Ink Box Pink requiring a slightly heavier touch. For those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Crystal switch may be the preferred choice. However, if a keyboard user seeks a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Ink Box Pink may offer the desired level of force. Overall, while the weights of these switches may differ slightly, they both provide comparable results and are suitable for different preferences.

Travel distance

The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have different travel distances. The Crystal has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This shorter distance is favored by gamers who are looking for faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel when typing or gaming, the Ink Box Pink would be the better option for you. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt. For those who prefer a deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the Crystal switch with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between these switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a neutral sound profile. These switches are not overly loud or clicky, but they do have a unique acoustic signature that can be described as chirpy. This means they have a slight squeak to them, setting them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch produces a higher-pitched clack when pressed. The sound is sharp, crisp, and percussive. Both switches fall into the high-pitched category, so if you prefer a more rich and bassy sound, these will be a good choice.

In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a fairly elastic type of feel. They have a medium-light weight, resulting in a unique and linear typing experience. These switches also have a polished finish, which means they are smooth and refined. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, giving you a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch is described as silky. They offer an exceptionally smooth typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of the feel. Like the Crystal switch, the Ink Box Pink is also polished, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch have some similarities and differences. Both switches have a high-pitched sound profile, although the Crystal switch is described as chirpy while the Ink Box Pink switch is clacky. In terms of feel, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Crystal switch offers a fairly elastic type of feel, while the Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with a unique acoustic signature and a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch would be a good choice. If you want a switch that is smooth and offers a lighter typing feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch would be a great option.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. The Crystal offers a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a unique, linear typing experience. It has a fairly elastic feel and a neutral sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the Ink Box Pink has a slightly higher bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a lighter typing feel compared to other switches. It has a smooth and polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. When it comes to sound, both switches produce a high-pitched sound when pressed, but the Crystal has a chirpy characteristic, while the Ink Box Pink has a clacky sound. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will come down to personal preferences for typing feel and sound.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

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Gateron Ink Box Pink Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more